Philly's star-studded secondary has been a major disappointment.

[R8RMR]

Much of the hype surrounding the Eagles in the preseason revolved around going after the best defense that money could buy. Opponents not only were expected to be under constant pressure from a rebuilt defensive line spearheaded by newcomers Jason Babin and Cullen Jenkins, but also be blanketed by Nnamdi Asomugha, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Asante Samuel.

While the revamped front line has certainly lived up to the hype, the secondary has fallen woefully short of expectations. The unit has surrendered eight touchdowns, tied for the most in the league, and only produced two interceptions. They also have allowed two completions of 40-plus yards and been torched by unheralded receivers.

Asomugha, in particular, has struggled despite being regarded as the premier shutdown corner in the league. He has been caught out of position on deep throws and his inability to snuff out the likes of Victor Cruz and Brandon Gibson is a concern considering the elite receivers remaining on the Eagles' schedule.

Part of Asomugha's woes in coverage could be attributed to transitioning into a scheme vastly different from the one he thrived in as a Raider. He is being asked to play more zone coverage, and isn't completely comfortable playing away from the line of scrimmage. He is also occasionally aligning over the slot receiver, which requires different techniques than he is accustomed. Regardless of the circumstances, Asomugha was expected to raise the level of play in the back end and he has failed to do so thus far.


NFL.com news: Raiders' McFadden dominates; Eagles secondary struggling

[R8RMR]

I still really like Nnamdi and I hope he can get these issues sorted out and dispel the bust rumours.

[Welsh Raider]

I dont think Aso has struggled as much as some people are making out.

I watched every snap of the Giants vs Eagles game, and the Eagles safety had a mare. He missed a tackle an when Nmandi went to clear up his mess, he got in the way and raced for a TD.

On the Victor Cruz TD it was excellent coverage and it was just an excellent throw and catch and an inch either side and its batted down.

The Eagles problem is that their linebackers stink and have done for years, as do their safeties. And on offense their interior line is the worst in the leaguem and Michael Vick is not playing well at all, and turnover the ball far too often.

Turnovers will kill you.

[psj3809]

As Greavsie would say 'its a funny old game'

I cant believe if you told me in Week 5 we would be 2 games ahead of the star studded Eagles i wouldnt believe you.

Aso left the Raiders as he wanted playoffs (and even more money !) and now look, Raiders could be turning it around, Eagles are in a right mess.  Funny

[R8RMR]

Just because you a lot of "star" players, doesn't mean that you have a team!

[Welsh Raider]

As Greavsie would say 'its a funny old game'

I cant believe if you told me in Week 5 we would be 2 games ahead of the star studded Eagles i wouldnt believe you.

Aso left the Raiders as he wanted playoffs (and even more money !) and now look, Raiders could be turning it around, Eagles are in a right mess.  Funny

PSJ you obssessed with money.

Aso didnt get anywhere near as much money as he could of. He got a similar contract to that of Dunta Robinson, who isnt anywhere near as good.

Yes it was still large, but in 2 years time there will be approx 20 corners or so on more money.

I could understand your point if went to a team that had no chance of winning the superbowl this season, but in all reality the Eagles even before their big moves, we're primed to contend.

Sadly for them Mike Vick or their recievers cant protect the football, their o-line is terrible ,and their linebackers are terrible and couldnt stop a nose bleed. and jarrad page is the worst safety starting in the NFL.

They kind of remind me of the Raiders.

[psj3809]

Well i think for a lot of fans the crazy money players are getting is ruining the NFL slightly, Aso could have got more , granted but he felt the Eagles were a contender so went there instead of say the Jets/Cowboys.

But its just some of the figures these players make is disgusting, ridiculous amounts of money and then the second they can leave and get another big wedge they do, hardly any loyalty anymore.

Seen a few Eagles games this year, Aso has played alright but not stunning.  But do find it amusing that obviously he went to the Eagles to get to the playoffs and theyre currently in a mess.  Do believe the Eagles will start to turn it around for sure though.